Auto Frequency Acquisition Maintenance in a Clock and Data Recovery Device

ABSTRACT

A system and method are provided for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a clock and data recovery (CDR) device. In an automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) mode, the method uses a phase detector (PHD) to acquire the phase of a non-synchronous input communication signal having an initial first frequency. In the event of a loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) signal being asserted, a frequency ratio value is retrieved from memory. Using a phase-frequency detector (PFD), the reference signal, and the frequency ratio value, a synthesized signal is generated. In response to using the PFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being deasserted, a rotational frequency detector (RFD) is used to generate a synthesized signal having a frequency equal to the frequency of the input communication signal. With the continued deassertion of the LOL/LOS signal, the PHD is enabled and the phase of the input signal is acquired.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of a pending application entitled, FREQUENCY HOLD MECHANISM IN A CLOCK AND DATA RECOVERY DEVICE, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 12/327,776, filed Dec. 3, 2008, attorney docket no. applied_(—)244, which is a continuation-in-part of:

a pending application entitled, FREQUENCY REACQUISITION IN A CLOCK AND DATA RECOVERY DEVICE, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 12/194,744, filed Aug. 20, 2008, attorney docket no. applied_(—)243, which is a continuation-in-part of:

a pending application entitled, FREQUENCY SYNTHESIS RATIONAL DIVISION, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 12/120,027, filed May 13, 2008, attorney docket no. applied_(—)241, which is a continuation-in-part of:

pending application entitled, HIGH SPEED MULTI-MODULUS PRESCALAR DIVIDER, invented by An et al., Ser. No. 11/717,261, filed Mar. 13, 2007, attorney docket no. applied_(—)198; and,

FLEXIBLE ACCUMULATOR FOR RATIONAL DIVISION, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 11/954,325, filed Dec. 12, 2007, attorney docket no. applied_(—)230.

This application is a continuation-in-part of a pending application entitled, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC CLOCK FREQUENCY ACQUISITION, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 11/595,012, filed Nov. 9, 2006, attorney docket no. applied_(—)180. All the above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to a phase-locked loop (PLL) frequency synthesis system and, more particularly, to a system and method for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance for input communication signals having an unknown frequency.

2. Description of the Related Art

Voltage controlled oscillators are commonly used in monolithic clock data recovery (CDR) units, as they're easy to fabricate and provide reliable results. Clock recovery PLLs generally don't use phase-frequency detectors (PFDs) in the data path since the incoming data signal isn't deterministic. PFDs are more typically used in frequency synthesizers with periodic (deterministic) signals. Clock recovery PLLs use exclusive-OR (XOR) based phase detectors to maintain quadrature phase alignment between the incoming data pattern and the re-timed pattern. XOR based phase detectors have limited frequency discrimination capability, generally restricting frequency offsets to less than the closed loop PLL bandwidth. This characteristic, coupled with the wide tuning range of the voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), requires CDR circuits to depend upon an auxiliary frequency acquisition system.

There are two basic PLL frequency acquisition techniques. The first is a VCO sweep method. During an out-of-lock condition, auxiliary circuits cause the VCO frequency to slowly sweep across its tuning range in search of an input signal. The sweeping action is halted when a zero-beat note is detected, causing the PLL to lock to the input signal. The VCO sweep method is generally used in microwave frequency synthesis applications. The second type of acquisition aid, commonly found in clock recovery circuits, uses a PFD in combination with an XOR phase detector. When the PLL is locked to a data stream, the PLL switches over to a PFD that is driven by a stable reference clock source. The reference clock frequency is proportional to the data stream rate. For example, if the data stream rate is D and the reference clock rate is R, then D α R. However, since the reference clock has only a few rate settings, it is unlikely that R is equal to the receive data rate. To create a reference equal to the data rate a fractional ratio of R must be used; such as D=n/d * R.

In this manner, the VCO frequency is held very close to the data rate. Keeping the VCO frequency in the proper range of operation facilitates acquisition of the serial data and maintains a stable downstream clock when serial data isn't present at the CDR input. When serial data is applied to the CDR, the XOR based phase detector replaces the PFD, and data re-timing resumes.

It is common for a PLL to use a divider in the feedback path, so that the PFD can operate at lower frequencies. In the simplest case, the divisor is a fixed integer value. Then, a frequency divider is used to produce an output clock that is an integer multiple of the reference clock. If the divider cannot supply the required divisor, or if the output clock is not an integer multiple of the reference clock, the required divisor may be generated by toggling between two integer values, so that an average divisor results. By placing a fractional divider (1/N) into this feedback path, a fractional multiple of the input reference frequency can be produced at the output of this fractional-N PLL.

However, it is difficult to determine a divisor, either fixed or averaged, if the frequency of the data stream is not known beforehand. For this reason, CDR devices are typically designed to operate at one or more predetermined data stream baud rates.

Conventional fractional-N frequency synthesizers use fractional number decimal values in their PLL architectures. Even synthesizers that are conventionally referred to as “rational” frequency synthesizers operate by converting a rational number, with an integer numerator and integer denominator, into resolvable or approximated fractional numbers. These frequency synthesizers do not perform well because of the inherent fractional spurs that are generated in response to the lack of resolution of the number of bits representing the divisor in the feedback path of the frequency synthesizer.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram depicting an accumulator circuit capable of performing a division operation (prior art). As noted in “A Pipelined Noise Shaping Coder for Fractional-N Frequency Synthesis”, by Kozak et al., IEEE Trans. on Instrumentation and Measurement, Vol. 50, No. 5, October 2001, the depicted 4^(th) order device can be used to determine a division ratio using an integer sequence.

The carry outs from the 4 accumulators are cascaded to accumulate the fractional number. The carry outs are combined to reduce quantization noise by adding their contributions are follows:

contribution 1=c1[n];

contribution 2=c2[n]·c2[n−1];

contribution 3=c3[n]·2c3[n−1]+c3[n−2];

contribution 4=c4[n]·3c4[n−1]+3c4[n−2]−c4[n−3];

where n is equal to a current time, and (n−1) is the previous time, Cx[n] is equal to a current value, and Cx[n−1] is equal to a previous value.

FIG. 2 shows the contributions made by the accumulator depicted in FIG. 1 with respect to order (prior art). A fractional number or fraction is a number that expresses a ratio of a numerator divided by a denominator. Some fractional numbers are rational—meaning that the numerator and denominator are both integers. With an irrational number, either the numerator or denominator is not an integer (e.g., n). Some rational numbers cannot be resolved (e.g., 10/3), while other rational numbers may only be resolved using a large number of decimal (or bit) places. In these cases, or if the fractional number is irrational, a long-term mean of the integer sequence must be used as an approximation.

The above-mentioned resolution problems are addressed with the use of a flexible accumulator, as described in parent application Ser. No. 11/954,325. The flexible accumulator is capable of performing rational division, or fractional division if the fraction cannot be sufficiently resolved, or if the fraction is irrational. The determination of whether a fraction is a rational number may be trivial in a system that transmits at a single frequency, especially if the user is permitted to select a convenient reference clock frequency. However, modern communication systems are expected to work at a number of different synthesized frequencies using a single reference clock. Further, the systems must be easily reprogrammable for different synthesized frequencies, without changing the single reference clock frequency.

As noted above, modern communication systems are expected to operate at a number of frequencies. In some circumstances the communication signal frequencies are unknown (not predetermined). While it is relatively straight-forward to reacquire the phase of a signal if the signal frequency is predetermined, it is necessarily more difficult to reacquire phase if the frequency is unknown. Similarly, it is relatively easy to hold on to the frequency of a temporarily interrupted signal if the signal frequency is predetermined. However, if the signal frequency is unknown, a temporary interruption conventionally requires that the frequency acquisition process be restarted. During this frequency reacquisition process, data is lost.

It would be advantageous if a complete methodology existed for acquiring the frequency and phase of an input signal having an unknown frequency. It would also be advantageous if the system could hold the frequency of a temporarily interrupted signal, or if required, quickly reacquire the frequency.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein is a system and method which supports automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) and frequency hold (FH) functions in a continuous rate clock and data recovery (CDR) system. Burst transmissions can be detected in a broad range of communication channel frequencies, and well as variations in signal lock status. A sufficient number of loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) indicators exist for alternating between AFA and FH. In the FH mode, the system is able to maintain the operating frequency in the event of a loss of lock (LOL) or loss of signal (LOS), and provides a stable clock to peripheral devices, even if the input data has been lost. In the AFA mode, the system is able to acquire a signal frequency over an extremely broad range, without any predetermined knowledge of the input signal.

In a continuous rate CDR system, frequency ratio detection is performed after the phase-locked loop (PLL) has been locked by a phase detector (PHD). If the CDR system is locked, the frequency range of the selected VCO (synthesizer) band already is known. A calculated frequency ratio resides within this frequency range. If the received signal is temporarily lost, if the received signal frequency varies, or if the received signal is bursty, it is possible to take advantage of the calculated frequency ratio. Using a rotational frequency detector (RFD) and the calculated frequency ratio, the device is able to hold on to the received signal frequency, and then acquire phase. If the RFD cannot acquire the input signal, the AFA mode is enabled, which begins by coarsely estimating the input signal frequency, and finishes by locking to the phase of the input signal.

Accordingly, a method is provided for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a clock and data recovery (CDR) device. In an automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) mode, the method uses a phase detector (PHD) to acquire the phase of a non-synchronous input communication signal having an initial first frequency. In response to acquiring the phase of the input communication signal, a synthesized signal is divided by a selected frequency ratio value, creating a frequency detection signal having a frequency equal to a reference signal frequency. The frequency ratio value is saved in a tangible memory medium. In the event of a loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) signal being asserted, method enters the frequency hold (FH) mode, and the frequency ratio value is retrieved from memory. Using a phase-frequency detector (PFD), the reference signal, and the frequency ratio value, a synthesized signal with the first frequency is generated. In response to using the PFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being deasserted, a rotational frequency detector (RFD) is used to generate a synthesized signal having a frequency equal to the frequency of the input communication signal. With the continued deassertion of the LOL/LOS signal, the PHD is enabled and the phase of the input signal is acquired. However, if the RFD is used to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal is asserted, then the AFA mode is initiated.

Initiating the AFA mode includes initially determining a coarse clock frequency using a first sampling measurement. Then, the coarse clock frequency is finally determined using a second sampling measurement. Subsequent to determining the coarse clock frequency, the RFD is used to acquire the frequency of the input communication signal. Then, the PHD is used to acquire the phase of the input communication signal.

Additional details of the above-described method and a system for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer are presented below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram depicting an accumulator circuit capable of performing a division operation (prior art).

FIG. 2 shows the contributions made by the accumulator depicted in FIG. 1 with respect to order (prior art).

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for synthesizing signal frequencies using rational division.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram depicting the system of FIG. 3 is the context of a phase-locked loop (PLL).

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram depicting a first flexible accumulator of the flexible accumulator module.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram depicting the flexible accumulator module as a plurality of series-connected flexible accumulators.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting the quotientizer of FIG. 6 in greater detail.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram depicting the feedback loop divider of FIG. 4 is greater detail.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram depicting the daisy-chain controller of FIG. 8 in greater detail.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for reacquiring a non-synchronous communication signal in a clock and data recovery (CDR) device frequency synthesizer.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a system for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram depicting the coarse frequency acquisition (CFA) circuitry of FIG. 11 in greater detail.

FIG. 13 is a diagram graphically depicting the selection of Fc1.

FIG. 14 is a diagram graphically depicting the process for determining Fc2.

FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram depicting the LOL/LOS signal summing network.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating frequency maintenance processes that utilize the AFA and FH modes of operation.

FIG. 17 is a chart depicting the operational range of the LOL detectors.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments are now described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. It may be evident, however, that such embodiment(s) may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing these embodiments.

As used in this application, the terms “processor”, “processing device”, “component,” “module,” “system,” and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. In addition, these components can execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems by way of the signal).

Various embodiments will be presented in terms of systems that may include a number of components, modules, and the like. It is to be understood and appreciated that the various systems may include additional components, modules, etc. and/or may not include all of the components, modules etc. discussed in connection with the figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits that have been described may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

The methods or algorithms described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. A storage medium may be coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in the node, or elsewhere. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in the node, or elsewhere in an access network.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for synthesizing signal frequencies using rational division. The system 100 comprises a calculator 102 having an input on line 104 to accept a reference frequency value and an input on line 106 to accept a synthesized frequency value. The calculator 102 divides the synthesized frequency value by the reference frequency value, and determines an integer value numerator (dp) and an integer value denominator (dq). The calculator 102 reduces the ratio of dp/dq to an integer N and a ratio of p/q (dp/dq=N(p/q)), where p/q<1 (decimal). The calculator 102 supplies N(p/q), where p is a numerator and q is a denominator, at an output on line 108. A flexible accumulator module 110 has an input on line 108 to accept N(p/q) and an output on line 112 to supply a divisor. For example, the calculator 102 may supply an n-bit binary numerator and an (n+1)-bit binary denominator. The divisor may be stored in a tangible memory medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM) or non-volatile memory) for subsequent use, as described below.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram depicting the system of FIG. 3 is the context of a phase-locked loop (PLL) 200. The PLL 200 includes a phase/frequency detector (PFD) 202, a frequency synthesizer 204, and a feedback loop divider 206. Typically, a PLL may also include a loop filer and charge pump 207. The PFD 202 accepts a reference signal on line 208 having a frequency equal to the reference frequency value. The frequency synthesizer 204 generates a synthesized signal on line 210 having a frequency equal to the synthesized frequency value. The flexible accumulator module 110 sums N with a k-bit quotient, creates the divisor, and supplies the divisor to the feedback loop divider 206 on line 112.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram depicting a first flexible accumulator of the flexible accumulator module. A flexible accumulator is capable of either rational or fractional division. As explained in more detail below, rational division relies upon the use of a numerator (dividend) and a denominator (divisor) that are used to form a true rational number. That is, the numerator and denominator are integer inputs to the flexible accumulator. Alternately stated, the input need not be a quotient derived from a numerator and denominator. The first flexible accumulator 302 includes a first summer 304 having an input on line 306 to accept a binary numerator (p). Summer 304 has an input on line 308 to accept a binary first count from a previous cycle and an output on line 310 to supply a binary first sum of the numerator and the first count.

A first subtractor 312 has an input on line 314 to accept a binary denominator (q), an input on line 310 to accept the first sum, and an output on line 316 to supply a binary first difference between the first sum and the denominator. Note: the numerator (p) and denominator (q) on lines 306 and 314, respectively, are components of the information supplied by the calculator on line 108. A first comparator 318 has an input on line 310 to accept the first sum, an input on line 314 to accept the denominator, and an output on line 320 to supply a first comparator signal. A first multiplexer (MUX) 322 has an input to accept carry bits. A “1” carry bit is supplied on line 324 and a “0” carry bit is supplied on line 326. The MUX 322 has a control input on line 320 to accept the first comparator signal, and an output on line 328 to supply a first carry bit in response to the first comparator signal.

More explicitly, the first MUX 322 supplies a binary “1” first carry bit on line 328 if the first comparator signal on line 320 indicates that the first sum is greater than the denominator. The MUX 322 supplies a binary “0” first carry bit if the first comparator signal indicates that the first sum is less than or equal to the denominator. The first MUX 322 has an input on line 310 to accept the first sum, an input on line 316 to accept the first difference, and an output on line 330 to supply the first count in response to the comparator signal. Note: the first count from first MUX 322 on line 330 becomes the first count from a subsequent cycle on line 308 after passing through clocked register or delay circuit 332. As explained in more detail below, line 308 may also connected as an output port (count) to another, higher order flexible accumulator.

The first MUX 322 supplies the first difference as the first count on line 308 for the subsequent cycle if the first comparator signal indicates that the first sum is greater than the denominator. The first MUX 322 supplies the first sum as the first count in the subsequent cycle if the first comparator signal indicates that first sum is less than or equal to the denominator. Alternately but not shown, the accumulator may be comprised of two MUX devices, one for selecting the carry bit and one for selecting the first count.

In one aspect, the first summer accepts an n-bit binary numerator on line 306, an n-bit first count on line 308 from the previous cycle, and supplies an (n+1)-bit first sum on line 310. The first subtractor 312 accepts an (n+1)-bit binary denominator on line 314 and supplies an n-bit first difference on line 316.

Typically, first summer 304 accepts the numerator with a value, and the first subtractor 312 accepts the denominator with a value larger than the numerator value. In one aspect, the combination of the numerator and denominator form a rational number. That is, both the numerator and denominator are integers. However, the numerator and denominator need not necessarily form a rational number. Alternately expressed, the first summer 304 may accept an n-bit numerator that is a repeating sequence of binary values, or the numerator may be the most significant bits of a non-repeating sequence. The non-repeating sequence may be represented by r, an irrational number or a rational number that cannot be resolved (does not repeat) within a span of n bits. In this aspect, the first subtractor 312 accepts an (n+1)-bit denominator with a value equal to decimal 2^((n+1)). Additional details of the flexible accumulator module can be found in parent application Ser. No. 11/954,325.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram depicting the flexible accumulator module as a plurality of series-connected flexible accumulators. Generally, the flexible accumulator module generates a binary sequence from each flexible accumulator and uses a plurality of binary sequences to generate the k-bit quotient.

A quotientizer 424 has an input on line 328 to accept the first binary sequence, an input on line 422 to accept the second binary sequence, and an output on line 426 to supply a k-bit quotient generated from the first and second binary sequences. In total, the flexible accumulator module 110 comprises m flexible accumulators, including an (m−1)th accumulator 440 and an mth accumulator 436. In this example, m=4. However, the module 110 is not limited to any particular number of flexible accumulators. Thus, the quotientizer has inputs 328, 422, 432, and 434 to accept m=4 binary sequences and the output 426 supplies a k-bit quotient generated from the m binary sequences. In one aspect, the quotientizer 424 derives the quotient as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and as explained below. Circuit 438 sums the k-bit quotient on line 426 with the integer N to supply the divisor on line 112.

A fourth order system, using four series-connected accumulators has been depicted as an example. However, it should be understood that the system is not limited to any particular number of accumulators. Although the above-described values have been defined as binary values, the system could alternately be explained in the context of hexadecimal or decimal numbers.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram depicting the quotientizer of FIG. 6 in greater detail. Returning to the calculation of the quotient, the number of bits required from each contribution block is different. From FIG. 2 it can see that each order requires a different number of bits. For example, the first contribution (contributions) has only two values: 0 and 1. So, only 1 bit is needed. There is no need for a sign bit, as the value is always positive. The second contribution has possible 4 values: −1, 0, 1, and 2. So, 3 bits are needed, including 1 sign bit. The third contribution has 7 values: −3 to 4. So, 4 bits are required, including 1 sign bit. The fourth contribution has 15 values: −7 to 8. So, 5 bits are required, including 1 sign bit.

To generalize for “k” (the k-bit quotient), Pascal's formula may be used to explain how many bits is necessary for each contribution (or order). For an m-order calculator, there are m flexible accumulators and m binary sequences. Each binary sequence (or carry bit) is connected to the input of one of the m sequences of shift registers. Thus, there are m signals combined from the m shift register sequences, corresponding to the m-binary sequences (or m-th carry bit) found using Pascal's formula. A 4-order calculator is shown in FIG. 7, with 4 shift register (delay) sequences, with each shift register sequence including 4 shift registers.

As a simplified alternative, each contribution may be comprised of the same number of bits, k, which is the total contribution (or order) for all contributions. These k-bit contributions are 2 complement numbers. In FIG. 2, k is equal to 5 bits [4:0].

The accumulator does not generate a sign bit. However, the carry outs from the accumulators are modulated in the calculator and the sign bit is generated. For example, the 2^(nd) order contribution=c2[n]−c2[n−1]. If c2[n]=0 and c2[n−1]=1, then the 2^(nd) order contribution=0−1=−1. Similarly, the third order contribution=c3[n]·2c3[n−1]+c3[n−2]. If c3[n]=0, c3[n−1]=1, and c3[n−2]=0, then the 3^(rd) order contribution=0−2×1+0=−2. For the 4^(th) order contribution=c4[n]−3c4[n−1]+3c4[n−2]−c4[n−3]. If c4[n]=0, c4[n−1]=1, c4[n−2]=0, and c4[n31 3]=1, then the 4^(th) order contribution=0−3×1+3×0−1=−4. These contributions are added together in the “order sum circuit” 502 on the basis of order, and the order is chosen using MUX 504 and the select signal on line 500. FIG. 7 depicts one device and method for generating a quotient from accumulator carry bits. However, the system of FIG. 6 might also be enabled using a quotientizer that manipulates the accumulator carry bits in an alternate methodology.

Returning to FIG. 4, in one aspect the calculator 102 defines a resolution limit of j radix places, sets q=dq, and determines p. The calculator 102 supplies p and q to a flexible accumulator module 110 enabled for rational division when p can be represented as an integer using j, or less, radix places. Alternately, the calculator 102 supplies N(r/q) to a flexible accumulator module enabled for fractional division, where r is a non-resolvable number, when p cannot be represented as an integer using j radix places. When enabled for fractional division, r is supplied as the “numerator” on line 306 (see FIG. 5). Then, the “denominator” on line 314 is represented as an integer with a value larger than the fractional number. For example, the fractional number of line 306 may be an unresolved 31-bit binary number and the integer on line 314 may be a 32-bit number where the highest order radix place is “1” and all the lower orders are “0”. Alternately stated, r may be a 31-bit non-resolvable numerator, and q a 32-bit denominator with a value equal to decimal 2³². In one aspect, r is “rounded-off” to a resolvable value.

In one aspect, the PLL 200 of FIG. 4 includes a feedforward divider 212 to accept the synthesized signal on line 210 and an output on line 214 to supply an output signal having a frequency=(synthesized signal frequency)/M. In this aspect, the flexible accumulator module 110 creates the divisor by summing N, the k-bit quotient, and M. Likewise, the calculator 102 reduces to ratio M(dp/dq)=N(p/q)).

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram depicting the feedback loop divider of FIG. 4 is greater detail. The feedback loop divider 206 includes a high-speed division module 800 and a low-speed division module 802. The high-speed module 800 includes a divider 804 having an input on line 210 to accept the synthesized signal and an output on line 806 to supply a first clock signal having a frequency equal to the (synthesized signal frequency)/J. A phase module 808 has an input on line 806 to accept the first clock and an output on lines 810 a through 810 n to supply a plurality of phase outputs, each having the first clock frequency. Typically, the phase module 808 generates a first clock with a first number of equally-spaced phase outputs. For example, n may be equal to 8, meaning that 8 first clock signals are supplied, offset from the nearest adjacent phase by 45 degrees. A phase selection multiplexer 812 has an input on lines 810 a-810 n to accept the plurality of first clock phase outputs, an input on line 814 to accept a control signal for selecting a first clock signal phase, and an output on line 816 to supply a prescalar clock with a frequency equal to the (synthesized signal frequency)/R, where R=J·S.

A daisy-chain register controller 818 has an input on line 820 to accept the pre-divisor value R and an output on line 814 to supply the control signal for selecting the first clock phase outputs. A low-speed module 822 has an input on line 816 to accept the prescalar clock and an output on line 216 to supply a divided prescalar clock with a frequency equal to the (divisor/R). A scaler 822 accepts the divisor on line 112, supplies the R value of line 820, and supplies division information to the low speed divider 802 on line 824. Returning briefly to FIG. 4, the PFD 202 compares the divided prescalar clock frequency on line 216 to the reference clock frequency and generates a synthesized signal correction voltage on line 218. In some aspects, the divided prescalar clock signal on line 216 is feedback to the flexible accumulator module 110.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram depicting the daisy-chain controller of FIG. 8 in greater detail. The daisy-chain register controller 818 accepts the prescalar clock on line 816 as a clock signal to registers 900 through 914 having outputs connected in a daisy-chain. The controller 818 generates a sequence of register output pulses 814 a through 814 h in response to the clock signals, and uses the generated register output pulses to select the first clock phase outputs.

The daisy-chain register controller 818 iteratively selects sequences of register output pulses until a first pattern of register output pulses is generated. Then, the phase selection multiplexer (816, see FIG. 8) supplies phase output pulses having a non-varying first period, generating a prescalar clock frequency equal to the (first clock frequency)·S, where S is either an integer or non-integer number. Additional details of the high speed divider and daisy-chain controller may be found in parent application Ser. No. 11/717,261.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram depicting a system for reacquiring a non-synchronous communication signal in a clock and data recovery (CDR) device frequency synthesizer. It should be understood that aspects of the system 1000 are enabled by, or work in junction with elements of the system described above in FIGS. 3-9. System 1000 comprises a first synthesizer 1002 a having an output on line 1004 to supply a synthesized signal having an output frequency locked in phase to a non-synchronous communication signal on line 1006, which has an input data frequency. A calculator module 1008 has an input to accept the synthesized signal on line 1004. The calculator module 1008 selects a frequency ratio value, divides the output frequency by the selected frequency ratio value, and supplies a divisor signal having a divisor frequency at an output on line 1010.

An epoch counter 1012 has an input on line 1010 to accept the divisor signal frequency and an input on line 1014 to accept a reference signal frequency. The epoch counter 1012 compares the divisor frequency to the reference signal frequency, and in response to the comparing, saves the frequency ratio value in a tangible memory medium 1016.

A phase detector (PHD) 1018 is shown, selectable engaged in a phase-lock mode in response to a control signal to multiplexer (MUX) 1019 on line 1020, with an input on line 1006 to accept the communication signal, an input on line 1004 to accept the synthesized signal, and an output on line 1022 to supply phase information. One example of a PHD can be found in an article authored by Charles Hogge Jr. entitled, “A Self Correcting Clock Recovery Circuit”, IEEE Journal of Lightwave Technology, Vol. LT-3, pp. 1312-1314, December 1985, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, other phase detector designs are also suitable.

A phase-frequency detector (PFD) 1032 is selectable engaged in the frequency acquisition mode, responsive to a control signal on line 1020. The PFD 1032 has an input on line 1014 to accept the reference signal frequency, an input on line 1030 to accept a frequency detection signal, and an output on line 1022 to supply frequency information. Thus, the first synthesizer 1002 a has an input on line 1034 to accept either phase information in the PHD mode or frequency information in the PFD mode. Also shown is a charge pump/filter 1037 interposed between lines 1022 and 1034. One example of a PFD can be found in an article authored by C. Andrew Sharpe entitled, “A 3-state phase detector can improve your next PLL design”, EDN Magazine, pp. 224-228, Sep. 20, 1976, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, other phase detector designs are also suitable.

A divider 1024 is engaged in the frequency acquisition (PFD) mode. The divider has an input on line 1028 to accept the frequency ratio value, an input on line 1004 to accept the synthesized signal output frequency, and an output on line 1030 to supply a frequency detection signal equal to the output frequency divided by the frequency ratio value.

The epoch counter 1012 retrieves the frequency ratio value from memory 1016 for supply to the divider 1024, in response to a loss of lock between the synthesized signal and the communication signal in the phase-lock mode, triggering the frequency acquisition mode.

The PHD 1018 compares the communication signal on line 1006 to the synthesized signal on line 1004 in the phase-lock mode and reacquires the phase of the communication signal, subsequent to PFD loop supplying a synthesized signal having the first frequency in the PFD mode.

The calculator 1008 selects a frequency ratio value equal to the output frequency divided by the reference frequency. The epoch counter 1012 compares the divisor signal frequency to the reference signal frequency by counting divisor signal cycles and creating a first count on line 1036. The epoch counter 1012 also counts reference signal cycles and creates a second count on line 1038. The epoch counter 1012 finds the difference between the first and second counts, as represented by summing circuit 1040, and compares the difference to a maximum threshold value input, as represented using comparator 1042.

In one aspect, the epoch counter 1012 compares the difference to the maximum threshold value by ending a coarse search for a frequency ratio value if the difference is less than the maximum threshold value, and reselects a frequency ratio value if the difference is greater than the maximum threshold value. The calculator 1008 selects the frequency ratio value by accessing a range of frequency ratio values corresponding to a range of output frequencies from table 1044. For example, the calculator 1008 selects a first frequency ratio value from the range of frequency ratio values, and reselects the frequency ratio value by selecting a second frequency value from the range of frequency ratio values in table 1044.

In one aspect, a search module 1046 has an output on line 1048 to supply search algorithm commands based upon a criteria such as step size, step origin, step direction, and combinations of the above-mentioned criteria. The calculator 1008 selects the first and second frequency ratio values in response to the search algorithm commands accepted at an input on line 1048.

In one aspect, the epoch counter 1012 compares the divisor frequency to the reference signal frequency by creating first and second counts with respect to a first time duration, and subsequent to ending the coarse search, initiates a fine search by creating first and second counts with respect to a second time duration, longer than the first time duration. In other words, the fine search uses a longer time period to collect a greater number of counts for comparison.

In another aspect, the epoch counter 1012 has an input on line 1050 to accept tolerance commands for selecting the maximum threshold value. Then, the calculator 1008 reselects a frequency ratio value if the difference is greater than the selected maximum tolerance value.

In one aspect, the system 1000 includes a plurality of synthesizers, each having a unique output frequency band. Shown are synthesizers 1002 a, 1002 b, and 1002 n, where n is not limited to any particular value. The first synthesizer 1002 a is selected from the plurality of synthesizers prior to the frequency detector acquiring the communication signal input data frequency in the frequency acquisition mode. If the system cannot acquire the input data frequency using the first synthesizer 1002 a, then second synthesizer 1002 b may be selected, until a synthesizer is found that can be locked to the input data frequency.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a system for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer. The system 1100 includes elements of the system depicted in FIG. 10, with additions such as a rotational frequency detector (RFD) 1102. RFDs are well known in the art, but the elements shown in FIG. 11 are combined to provide a unique combination of frequency hold and acquisition functions. One example of an RFD can be found in an article authored by Pottbacker et al. entitled, “A Si Bipolar Phase and Frequency Detector IC for Clock Extraction up to 8 Gb/s”, IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits, Vol. SC-27, pp. 1747-1751, December 1992, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, other phase detector designs are also suitable.

As in FIG. 10, a PLL is shown including a selectable PHD 1018 that is enabled in the AFA mode to acquire the phase of an input non-synchronous communication signal on line 1006 having an initial first frequency, with respect to a first synthesized signal on line 1004. The PHD 1018 has an output to supply a synthesizer control signal on line 1022. A synthesizer 1002 a has an input to accept the synthesizer control signal on line 1034, after conditioning by charge pump/filter 1037, and an output to supply the synthesized signal on line 1004.

While the PHD is phase-locked to the input communication signal on line 1006, the epoch counter determines the frequency ratio value, as described in detail in the explanation of FIG. 10. The frequency ratio value is equal to the synthesized signal frequency divided by the reference frequency on line 1014. Alternately stated, the frequency detection signal has a frequency equal to a reference signal frequency on line 1014. As described in FIG. 10, the divider 1024 is part of a PFD loop. Advantageously, the system depicted in FIG. 11 uses only a single reference signal frequency, regardless of the frequency of the communication signal on line 1006. The selected frequency ratio value is saved in tangible memory medium 1016.

As in FIG. 10, the PLL includes a selectable PFD 1032 having inputs on lines 1030 and 1014 to accept a frequency detection signal and the reference signal, respectively, and an output on line 1022 to supply a synthesizer control signal. The PFD 1032 is enabled in response to a loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) signal being asserted on line 1060. Control 1062 is a state machine logic device capable of providing a MUX select signal on line 1020 in response to the LOL/LOS signals on line 1060. Divider 1024 has an input on line 1004 to accept the synthesized signal, and an input on line 1028 to accept the frequency ratio value retrieved from memory. Divider 1024 has an output on line 1030 to supply the frequency detection signal equal to the reference signal frequency. The synthesizer 1002 a generates a synthesized signal having an output frequency equal to the initial input communication signal (first) frequency. The particular synthesizer (1002 a through 1002 n) engaged in the PLL is selected using switch or MUX mechanism 1058, as described in more detail in the explanation of FIG. 12.

A selectable RFD 1102 is enabled in response to the PFD locking its input signals and the LOL/LOS signal on line 1060 being deasserted. The RFD 1102 has inputs to accept the synthesized signal and the input communication signal on lines 1004 and 1006, respectively, and an output to supply a synthesizer control signal on line 1022. The PHD 1018 is enabled using control signals on line 1020 subsequent the RFD 1032 acquiring the input communication signal on line 1006 and the LOL/LOS signal on line 1060 continuing to be deasserted. Then, the PHD 1018 compares the synthesized signal on line 1004 to the input communication signal 1006, and acquires the phase of the input communication signal. In some aspects, the epoch counter 1012 updates the frequency ratio value in response to the PHD acquiring the phase of the input communication signal, and stores the updated frequency ratio value in memory 1016. The input communication signal may have been temporarily interrupted or transmitted in a bursty manner. Alternately, the input communication signal may have drifted in frequency. Once the phase of the input communication signal is acquired, the AFA process is completed.

However, if the RFD 1032 is used to generate the synthesized signal on line 1004 and the LOL/LOS signal on line 1060 is (re)asserted, then coarse frequency acquisition circuitry 1200 is enabled as part of the AFA process.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram depicting the coarse frequency acquisition (CFA) circuitry of FIG. 11 in greater detail. The CFA circuitry comprises a coarse determination module (CDM) 1202. A more complete explanation of the CDM and CFA circuitry can be found in a pending parent application entitled, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC CLOCK FREQUENCY ACQUISITION, invented by Do et al., Ser. No. 11/595,012, filed Nov. 9, 2006, attorney docket no. applied_(—)180, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The CDM 1202 has an input on line 1006 to receive an input communication signal serial data stream with an unknown clock frequency and an output on line 1218 to supply a coarsely determined measurement of the clock frequency. The information on line 1218 is used in selecting a synthesizer from a group of synthesizers covering a broad range of frequencies, once the RFD is engaged in the AFA mode. The CDM 1202 initially determines the coarse clock frequency using a first sampling measurement and supplies a finally determined coarse clock frequency using a second sampling measurement, as described in detail below.

More explicitly, a sampler 1212 has an input on line 1006 to receive the input communication signal serial data stream, an input connected to a reference clock output on line 1204, and an output on line 1214 to supply a count of transitions in the data stream sampled at a reference clock frequency. A processor 1216 has an input on line 1214 to accept the count from the sampler 1212, an input on line 1210 to accept the count from the counter 1206, and an output on line 1218 to supply the coarse clock frequency calculated in response to comparing the counts.

In one aspect, the reference clock 1202 outputs a high frequency first clock frequency (Fref1) on line 1204, which is received by the counter 1206. Note: reference clock 1202 may be the same clock that supplies the reference signal on line 1014 of FIG. 11. The counter supplies a count of transitions in the data stream during a first time segment, responsive to Fref1. In this aspect, it is assumed that Fref1 is greater than, or equal to the frequency of the input communication signal. In a different aspect (not shown), the counter may be a register, such as a flip-flop, with Q and Q-bar inputs tied to a fixed voltage, with the data stream on line 1006 tied to a clock input. Assuming that register has a sufficient high frequency response, an accurate count of data transitions can be obtained by dividing the register output by a factor of 2. However, the invention is not limited to any particular method for obtaining an accurate count of data transitions.

The task of the sampler 1212 is to count the number of transitions in the input communication signal during the first time segment, at a plurality of sample frequencies equal to Fref1/n, where n is an integer ≧1. For simplicity, whole number integers are used as an example. However, the invention could also be enabled using non-whole integers for values of n. Generally, the task of the processor 1216 is to find the lowest frequency sampling clock that provides an accurate count. Here it is assumed that the count provided by the counter 1206 is accurate. Thus, the processor 1216 compares the count for each sampling frequency, to the count for Fref1 (n=1), which is the count provided by counter 1206. The processor 1216 determines the highest sampling frequency (n=x) having a lower count than Fref1, and initially sets the data clock frequency to Fc1=Fref1(x−1). Alternately stated, the processor 1216 compares counts, as the sampling rate clock is incrementally lowered in frequency. When the count varies from the known accurate count, the sampling rate is assumed to be too low, and the sampling rate clock next highest in frequency is selected as Fc1. Note: the processor may make data transition counts and comparisons serially, using different input communication signal time segments. Alternately, a plurality of sampling rates may be measured in parallel using the same data stream time segment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram graphically depicting the selection of Fc1. Shown is an input communication signal serial data stream. The data stream is sampled at the rate Fref1 (n=1), during a first time segment, and 5 data transitions are counted. The data stream is sampled in the same time segment using a sample rate of Fref1/2 (n=2), and 5 data transitions are counted. However, when the sampling rate is reduced to Fref1/3 (n=3), a count of 3 is obtained. So the sampling rate is known to be too low, and x=3. Therefore, Fc1 is set to Fref1/(x−1), or Fref1/2.

Returning to FIG. 12, once the input communication signal data stream clock is initially determined, a subsequent process may be engaged to more finely determine the frequency. In this aspect, a plurality of sub-reference clocks or synthesizers 1002 is used. Shown are clocks 1002 a, 1002 b, and 1002 n. However, n is not limited to any particular number. The combination of sub-reference clock output frequencies covers the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1). The sampler 1212 counts the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal serial data stream at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies. Note: the counted data transitions need not necessarily be from the first time segment. Further, it is not always necessary to measure each sub-reference clock. In one aspect, all the data transitions may be counted in a different (subsequent) time segment. The processor 1216 compares the counts for each sub-reference clock to the count for Fref1, determines the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1, and sets the final coarse clock frequency to Fc2.

In one aspect, the plurality of sub-reference clocks 1002 are tunable sub-reference clocks, the combination of which can be tuned to cover the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1). For example, the sub-reference clocks may be voltage tunable oscillators (VCOs). Note: in one aspect the sub-reference clocks (Fc2) depicted in FIG. 12 are the synthesizers (1002 a through 1002 n) depicted in FIG. 11. The sampler 1212 counts data transitions for each sub-reference clock tuned to the low end of its frequency sub-band, and the processor 1216 determines the highest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a lower count than Fref1. It is assumed that the selected sub-reference clock Fc2 can be tuned in subsequent processes to the exact serial data stream frequency.

FIG. 14 is a diagram graphically depicting the process for determining Fc2. The input communication signal data stream is sampled at the rate Fc1, which is Fref1/2, see FIG. 13. During the first time segment, 5 data transitions are counted (as in FIG. 13). The data stream is sampled in the same time segment using a sub-reference clock Fc2 a, and 4 data transitions are counted. Thus, the sampling rate is too slow. Then, the data stream is sampled at Fc2 b, which is the next highest frequency sub-reference clock. Here, a count of 5 is obtained, and Fc2 b may be used as the final coarse frequency selection. Alternately, if the sub-reference clocks are tunable and the count measurements are performed on the low end of the band, Fc2 a may selected, since it can be tuned to the exact data stream frequency, which may be desirable in some aspects of the system.

Using the initial process depicted in FIG. 13, the processor can initially determine the data clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−100%. Using the process depicted in FIG. 14, the process can finally determine the data clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−20%. A tunable sub-reference clock may be used to determine and track the exact frequency of the data stream.

FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram depicting the LOL/LOS signal summing network. LOL indicators are summed at OR gate 1502. LOS indicators are summed at OR gate 1504. The combined LOL/LOS indicators are combined at OR gate 1506, which supplies the LOL/LOS signal on line 1060. The PHD Lock Detect signal on line 1508 is asserted when the phase of the input communication signal is phase-locked to the synthesizer signal. The RFD Lock Detect on line 1510 is derived from two time varying clocks using analog circuitry to determine the lock status between the two clocks. The analog circuitry uses the input communication signal to sample the time varying VCO clock and to determine the frequency difference (beat clock). The analog circuitry synchronous samples the beat signal using the synthesizer signal.

As the two frequencies approach each other, the period of the beat increases (beat frequency decreases). If the two frequencies are within the required PPM limit, the PLL loop is considered “locked” and RFD Lock Detect is asserted.

The PFD Lock Detect signal on line 1512 is derived from a fixed frequency reference clock and a variable frequency PLL comparison clock. A digital circuit uses two counter circuits to determine the frequency of the comparison clock by maintaining a count of each positive edge of both the comparison clock and the reference clock. The lock detect logic determines whether the frequency difference between the two clock inputs is within the prescribed PPM limit by comparing each counter's output. If the required PPM limit is met, then the PLL loop is considered “locked” and the PFD Lock Detect signal is asserted.

The Frequency Ratio Detect (RFD) signal on line 1514 is asserted when the frequency ratio between the input communication signal and the synthesized signal is valid. The FRD Frequency Drift Status signal on line 1516 is asserted if the frequency between two consecutive monitor cycles is off more than the allowable specified PPM.

The Harmonic Band Error Status signal on line 1520 is asserted when a single bit (1 or 0) transition has not been detected in the received data within a programmable epoch. Transmitted data is encoded and/or scrambled to maintain high transition density and reduce spectral density. The resulting data pattern is expected to have a minimum rate of single bits transitions. A single bit transition is a 3-bit pattern, either 101 or 010, where the center bit in those patterns is a single bit. A continuous rate CDR can falsely lock to harmonics of the actual bit rate causing the received data to be oversampled by an integer factor of 2 or more. This oversampling is detectable since a single bit transition in the transmitted data pattern will be repeated an integer number of times, e.g., 101 transmitted is oversampled as 110011 if the CDR falsely locks to the 2^(nd) harmonic of the bit rate.

The Coarse Frequency Detect signal on line 1522 is asserted after the Coarse Frequency Detector is able to select a sub-reference clock or synthesizer (FIGS. 11 and 12) corresponding the frequency of the input data rate. The Coarse Frequency Detect Status signal on line 1522 is asserted if the number of transitions is greater than 1.375 of the input serial data.

The LOS Indicators used are as follows. A Signal Strength Detect Status signal on line 1526 is asserted if the received signal amplitude is less than a programmable threshold. The error is de-asserted if the signal amplitude is greater than a programmable threshold. The assertion and de-assertion thresholds are independent of each other, to allow for hysteresis.

The Run Length Detect Status signal on line 1528 is asserted when the number of consecutive 1's or 0's is greater than a programmable threshold. Transmitted data is encoded and/or scrambled to maintain a minimum transition density. The Transition Count Detect Status signal on line 1530 is asserted if the number transitions of the input serial data in a predefined timing epoch is less than a predefined threshold.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating frequency maintenance processes that utilize the AFA and FH modes of operation. AFA is a process which automatically locks a device to an unspecified input data rate by using three detectors: CFD, RFD, and PHD. The AFA process starts at Step 1600, and in Step 1602 coarse frequency acquisition is initiated. If successful (Step 1604), the PLL uses an RFD to acquire the input signal (Step 606). If successful (Step 1608), the PLL uses the PHD to acquire phase (Step 1610). After the AFA process is done, the frequency ratio between the input data rate and the reference frequency is determined and stored (Step 1614). If an LOL/LOS signal is asserted in Step 1616, the PLL uses the frequency ratio and the PFD to synthesize a signal. If the PFD is locked and the LOL/LOS signal is deasserted in Step 1620, the PLL engages the RFD (Step 1606). If the input data rate is in the RFD detection range (Step 1608), then RFD Lock Detect is quickly asserted. Otherwise, the AFA process is restarted (Step 1602).

FIG. 17 is a chart depicting the operational range of the LOL detectors. As shown, Harmonic Band Error Status, RFD Lock Detect, and Coarse Frequency Detect Status have different operational ranges. FRD Frequency Drift Status is used for focusing in a narrow frequency band. For the LOS indicators, Signal Strength Detect Status is used as a direct method for monitoring the input signal. Consequentially, Run Length Detect Status and Transition Count Detect Status are utilized as indirect methods to perform the same function as Signal Strength Detect Status.

Although the above-described systems have been depicted as a combination of connected hardware elements, some aspects parts of the system may be enabled using software instructions stored in memory that are called and performed by a processor or logic-coded state machine device (not shown). Signal functions have been described instead of the hardware capable of producing these signals, as the signals may be created using many different types of hardware design.

Additional details concerning LOL and LOS indicators can also be found in the following pending applications, which are incorporated herein by reference:

FREQUENCY LOCK DETECTION, Kong et al., Ser. No. 12/129,477, filed May 29, 2008, attorney docket no. applied_(—)215;

SELECTABLE LOSS OF SIGNAL (LOS) CRITERIA, Giorgetta et al., Ser. No. 11/516,899, filed Sep. 7, 2005, attorney docket no. applied_(—)173; and,

FALSE FREQUENCY LOCK DETECTOR, Pang et al., Ser. No. 11/983,675, filed Nov. 9, 2007, attorney docket number applied_(—)231.

Functional Description

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer. Although the method is depicted as a sequence of numbered steps for clarity, the numbering does not necessarily dictate the order of the steps. It should be understood that some of these steps may be skipped, performed in parallel, or performed without the requirement of maintaining a strict order of sequence. The method starts at Step 1800.

In an automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) mode, Step 1802 uses a phase detector (PHD) to acquire the phase of a non-synchronous input communication signal having an initial first frequency. In response to acquiring the phase of the input communication signal, Step 1804 divides a synthesized signal by a selected frequency ratio value, creating a frequency detection signal having a frequency equal to a reference signal frequency. Step 1806 saves the frequency ratio value in a tangible memory medium. In response to an LOL/LOS signal being asserted, Step 1808 retrieves the frequency ratio value from memory.

Using a phase-frequency detector (PFD), the reference signal, and the frequency ratio value, Step 1810 generates a synthesized signal with the first frequency. In response to using the PFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being deasserted, Step 1812 uses a rotational frequency detector (RFD) to generate a synthesized signal having a frequency equal to the frequency of the input communication signal. In response to using the RFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being asserted, Step 1814 initiates the AFA mode. Alternately, if the RFD acquires the frequency of the input communication signal and the LOL/LOS signal continues to be deasserted, Step 1816 uses the PHD to compare the frequency of the synthesized signal to the frequency of the input communication signal. Then, Step 1818 acquires the phase of the input communication signal.

In one aspect, initiating the AFA mode in Step 1814 includes substeps. Step 1814 a initially determines a coarse clock frequency using a first sampling measurement. Step 1814 b finally determines the coarse clock frequency using a second sampling measurement. For example, Step 1814 a may determine the initial coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−100%, while Step 1814 b may determine the final coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−20%. Subsequent to determining the coarse clock frequency, the method returns to Step 1812 where the RFD is used to acquire the frequency of the input communication signal, and Step 1818 where the PHD is used to acquiring the phase of the input communication signal.

Initially determining the coarse clock frequency using the first sampling measurement in Step 1814 a includes additional substeps. Step 1814 a 1 selects a high frequency first reference clock (Fref1). Step 1814 a 2 counts the number of data transitions in a first time segment of the input communication signal at a plurality of sample frequencies equal to Fref1/n, where n is an integer ≧1. Step 1814 a 3 compares the count for each sampling frequency, to the count for Fref1 (n=1). Step 1814 a 4 determines the highest sampling frequency (n=x) having a lower count than Fref1, and Step 1814 a 5 sets the coarse clock frequency to Fc1=Fref1/(x−1).

Finally determining the coarse clock frequency using the second sampling measurement in Step 1814 b includes additional substeps. Step 1814 b 1 selects a plurality of sub-reference clocks (synthesizers), the combination of which covers the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1). Step 1814 b 2 counts the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies. Step 1814 b 3 compares the count for each sub-reference clock to the count for Fref1. Step 1814 b 4 determines the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1, and Step 1814 b 5 sets the final coarse clock frequency to Fc2.

In one aspect, selecting the plurality of sub-reference clocks (Step 1814 b 1) includes selecting a plurality of tunable sub-reference clocks (synthesizers), the combination of which can be tuned to cover the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1). Then, counting the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies (Step 1814 b 2) includes: tuning each sub-reference clock to the low end of its frequency sub-band; and, counting data transitions. Finally, determining the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1 (Step 1814 b 4) includes determining the highest frequency sub-reference clock having a lower count than Fref1.

In one aspect, asserting a LOL/LOS signal in Step 1808 includes a asserting PHD lock detect, PFD lock detect, frequency ratio detect (FRD), LOL signals, LOS signals, and combinations of the above-mentioned signals, where the LOL signals include RFD lock detect, frequency drift status detect, harmonic band error detect, and coarse frequency detector, and where the LOS signals include signal strength detect, run length detect, and transition count detect.

A system and method have been provided for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance in a CDR device frequency synthesizer. Some examples of circuitry and methodology steps have been given as examples to illustrate the invention. However, the invention is not limited to merely these examples. Other variations and embodiments of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art. 

1. In a clock and data recovery (CDR) device, a method for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance, the method comprising: in an automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) mode, using a phase detector (PHD) to acquire the phase of a non-synchronous input communication signal having an initial first frequency; in response to acquiring the phase of the input communication signal, dividing a synthesized signal by a selected frequency ratio value, creating a frequency detection signal having a frequency equal to a reference signal frequency; saving the frequency ratio value in a tangible memory medium; in response to a loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) signal being asserted, retrieving the frequency ratio value from memory; using a phase-frequency detector (PFD), the reference signal, and the frequency ratio value, generating a synthesized signal with the first frequency; in response to using the PFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being deasserted, using a rotational frequency detector (RFD) to generate a synthesized signal having a frequency equal to the frequency of the input communication signal; and, in response to using the RFD to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being asserted, initiating the AFA mode.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: subsequent to using the RFD to acquire the frequency of the input communication signal and with the continued deassertion of the LOL/LOS signal, using the PHD to compare the frequency of the synthesized signal to the frequency of the input communication signal; and, acquiring the phase of the input communication signal.
 3. The method of claim 1 wherein initiating the AFA mode includes: initially determining a coarse clock frequency using a first sampling measurement; finally determining the coarse clock frequency using a second sampling measurement; subsequent to determining the coarse clock frequency, using the RFD to acquire the frequency of the input communication signal; and, using the PHD, acquiring the phase of the input communication signal.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein initially determining the coarse clock frequency using the first sampling measurement includes: selecting a high frequency first reference clock (Fref1); counting the number of data transitions in a first time segment of the input communication signal at a plurality of sample frequencies equal to Fref1/n, where n is an integer ≧1; comparing the count for each sampling frequency, to the count for Fref1 (n=1); determining the highest sampling frequency (n=x) having a lower count than Fref1; and, setting the coarse clock frequency to Fc1=Fref1/(x−1).
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein finally determining the coarse clock frequency using the second sampling measurement includes: selecting a plurality of sub-reference clocks, the combination of which covers the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1); counting the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies; comparing the count for each sub-reference clock to the count for Fref1; determining the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1; and, setting the final coarse clock frequency to Fc2.
 6. The method of claim 5 wherein selecting the plurality of sub-reference clocks includes selecting a plurality of tunable sub-reference clocks, the combination of which can be tuned to cover the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1); wherein counting the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies includes: tuning each sub-reference clock to the low end of its frequency sub-band; and counting data transitions; and, wherein determining the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1 includes determining the highest frequency sub-reference clock having a lower count than Fref1.
 7. The method of claim 5 wherein coarsely determining the clock frequency includes: determining the initial coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−100%; and, determining the final coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−20%.
 8. The method of claim 1 wherein asserting a LOL/LOS signal includes asserting a signal selected from a group consisting of PHD lock detect, PFD lock detect, frequency ratio detect (FRD), LOL signals, LOS signals, and combinations of the above-mentioned signals, where the LOL signals include RFD lock detect, frequency drift status detect, harmonic band error detect, and coarse frequency detector, and where the LOS signals include signal strength detect, run length detect, and transition count detect.
 9. In a clock and data recovery (CDR) device frequency synthesizer, a system for automatic frequency acquisition maintenance, the system comprising: a phase-locked loop (PLL) including: a selectable phase detector (PHD) to acquire the phase of an input non-synchronous communication signal in an automatic frequency acquisition (AFA) mode, the input communication signal having an initial first frequency with respect to a synthesized signal, and the PHD having an output to supply a synthesizer control signal; a synthesizer having an input to accept the synthesizer control signal and an output to supply the synthesized signal; an epoch counter having inputs to accept a divisor signal, created by dividing the synthesized signal by an estimate of a frequency ratio value, and a reference signal, and an output to supply the frequency ratio value in response to the comparing the divisor signal to the reference signal; a tangible memory medium for saving the frequency ratio value; wherein the PLL further includes: a selectable phase-frequency detector (PFD) enabled in response to a loss of lock/loss of signal (LOL/LOS) signal being asserted, the PFD having inputs to accept a frequency detection signal and the reference signal, and an output to supply a synthesizer control signal; a divider having inputs to accept the synthesized signal and the frequency ratio value retrieved from memory, and an output to supply the frequency detection signal equal to the reference signal frequency; and, a selectable rotational frequency detector (RFD) enabled in response to the PFD locking and the LOL/LOS signal being deasserted, the RFD having inputs to accept the synthesized signal and the input communication signal, and an output to supply a synthesizer control signal; and, coarse frequency acquisition circuitry enabled in the AFA mode, in response to the RFD being used to generate the synthesized signal and the LOL/LOS signal being asserted.
 10. The system of claim 9 wherein the PHD is enabled subsequent to the RFD acquiring the input communication signal and the continued deassertion of the LOL/LOS signal.
 11. The system of claim 9 wherein the coarse frequency acquisition circuitry comprises: a coarse determination module (CDM) having an input to receive the input communication signal with an unknown clock frequency and an output to supply a coarsely determined measurement of the clock frequency; and, wherein the CDM initially determines the coarse clock frequency using a first sampling measurement and supplies a finally determined coarse clock frequency using a second sampling measurement.
 12. The system of claim 11 further comprising: a reference clock having an output to supply a high frequency first reference clock frequency Fref1; wherein the CDM has an input connected to the reference clock output, the CDM initially determining the coarse clock frequency as follows: counting the number of data transitions in a first time segment of the input communication signal at a plurality of sample frequencies equal to Fref1/n, where n is an integer ≧1; comparing the count for each sampling frequency, to the count for Fref1 (n=1); determining the highest sampling frequency (n=x) having a lower count than Fref1; and, setting the coarse clock frequency to Fc1=Fref1/(x−1).
 13. The system of claim 12 wherein the coarse frequency acquisition circuitry further comprises: a plurality of sub-reference clocks, the combination of which covers the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1); wherein the CDM finally determines the coarse clock frequency as follows: counting the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies; comparing the count for each sub-reference clock to the count for Fref1; determining the lowest frequency sub-reference clock (Fc2) having a count equal to Fref1; and, setting the final coarse clock frequency to Fc2.
 14. The system of claim 13 wherein the plurality of sub-reference clocks are tunable sub-reference clocks, the combination of which can be tuned to cover the frequency band between Fref1/x and Fref1/(x−1); wherein the CDM counts the number of data transitions in the first time segment of the input communication signal at the plurality of sub-reference clock frequencies as follows: tuning each sub-reference clock to the low end of its frequency sub-band; counting data transitions; and, determining the highest frequency sub-reference clock having a lower count than Fref1.
 15. The system of claim 14 wherein the CDM initially determines the coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−100%, and finally determines the coarse clock frequency within a tolerance of about +/−20%.
 16. The system of claim 9 further comprising: LOL/LOS circuitry asserting and deasserting LOL/LOS signals selected from a group consisting of PHD lock detect, PFD lock detect, frequency ratio detect (FRD), LOL signals, LOS signals, and combinations of the above-mentioned signals, where the LOL signals include RFD lock detect, frequency drift status detect, harmonic band error detect, and coarse frequency detector, and where the LOS signals include signal strength detect, run length detect, and transition count detect. 